👶Your baby this week
Your baby now measures roughly the length of a newborn bottle teat, about forty-four millimetres from head to bottom and is looking more and more like a newborn in miniature.
The head still makes up a large proportion of the body as the brain grows quickly, but the torso is lengthening and straightening.
Fingers and toes are separating, complete with early nail beds. Tiny ears are moving into position on the sides of the head.
Facial features are becoming clearer: there’s a small nose with open nasal passages, and inside the mouth, a tongue and palate are forming.
Although you won’t feel it yet, your baby can kick, stretch and perform little rolls. These movements help develop muscles and joints.
Hair follicles begin to appear across the body, and the skin is still paper-thin. If your baby is a girl, ovaries are beginning to develop internally.
The placenta is stepping up to take over nourishment and waste removal, ready to support steady growth for the months ahead.
🌸Your body this week
Two weeks from the second trimester, many people notice the very first hint of a bump. As the womb expands, muscles and ligaments stretch, brief twinges around the lower tummy can be normal.
Blood volume is rising towards about 50% above usual to feed the womb and placenta. This can leave you feeling warm, flushed, sweaty or a little dizzy at times.
As the placenta takes over hormone production, the ‘switch-over’ can make you feel more tired or emotional. Rest and gentle routine often help.
Progesterone continues to relax the digestive tract, so bloating, burping, indigestion and heartburn may linger.
Breasts may feel fuller and tender as ducts and blood flow increase. A supportive, comfortable bra can ease discomfort.
A thin, milky vaginal discharge (leukorrhoea) is common and protective. Seek medical advice if there’s bleeding, pain, itching or an unusual odour.
💛Symptoms you might notice
Every pregnancy is different. These are common around week 11 — speak to your midwife if anything worries you.
Aches and Pains Around the Bump
Stretching of the round ligaments can cause short, sharp twinges with movement or when standing up quickly. Rest, change position slowly and support the bump when turning.
Nausea and Food Aversions
Queasiness may be easing for some, but small, frequent snacks, ginger or lemon and steady fluids can still help on difficult days.
Fatigue and Dizziness
Rising blood demands and hormonal shifts are tiring. Prioritise sleep, snack regularly and drink water. Sit or lie down if you feels faint.
Indigestion and Heartburn
Eat slowly, choose smaller portions and avoid rich, spicy or very acidic foods. Staying upright after meals can reduce reflux.
Headaches and Mood Swings
Hormones, low blood sugar or dehydration can play a role. Rest in a dim room, use a cool compress and keep hydrated. Speak to a midwife or GP if headaches are severe or persistent.
Increased Vaginal Discharge
Leukorrhoea helps maintain a healthy balance of bacteria. Use breathable underwear and avoid douching or perfumed washes.
✨Tips for week 11
Know What to Expect at your Dating Scan
Most hospitals offer a first ultrasound between 8 and 14 weeks. A sonographer uses safe sound waves to check how far along you is and how your baby is developing.
Ask About Screening (Including NT Measurement)
Around this time, you may be offered blood tests and an optional nuchal translucency (NT) measurement as part of screening for certain conditions. It’s your choice, ask questions to feel confident about any decisions.
Support the Placenta ‘Takeover’
Fatigue and emotions can spike while the placenta assumes more of the workload. Build in early nights, short rests and light activity such as a gentle walk.
Eat Little and Often
Six small meals or snacks can steady blood sugar, ease nausea and reduce bloating. Eat slowly and try a short stroll after eating.
Hydrate Smartly
Sip water regularly throughout the day. If nighttime loo trips are disruptive, reduce fluids in the hour or two before bed.
Keep Taking Folic Acid and Vitamin D
Continue 400 micrograms of folic acid daily until at least week 12, and 10 micrograms of vitamin D to support healthy bones and muscles.
Move Gently, Most Days
Aim towards 150 minutes of moderate activity a week if comfortable. Even 10-minute brisk walks can boost mood, sleep and digestion.
Watch for Red Flags
Contact a midwife or maternity unit urgently if you has heavy bleeding, severe or persistent abdominal pain, or a sudden change in usual pregnancy symptoms.
Look After your Emotional Wellbeing
If you feels anxious or low, talk to a midwife, GP or someone trusted. There’s plenty of support available, You doesn’t have to manage alone.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol, Limit Caffeine
Seek support to stop smoking and avoid alcohol. Keep caffeinated drinks to a sensible minimum.
Consider Antenatal Classes
Ask about local or online sessions to learn about labour, birth and early days, and to meet other parents-to-be.